Episodios

  • Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever in the AI Age
    Jul 11 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Project Flux Spotlight Series, James Garner speaks with Tom Esch, a consultant with a unique background as a former Catholic priest. They discuss the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for human skills, emotional intelligence, and workplace dynamics. Tom shares his journey from skepticism to a more open perspective on AI, emphasizing the importance of human connection and communication in an increasingly digital world. The conversation also touches on the challenges of conflict resolution in construction, the need for psychologically safe workplaces, and the potential for AI to enhance or hinder human relationships. Tom's insights highlight the necessity of balancing technological advancements with the preservation of essential human skills.

    Takeaways

    AI can be a useful tool for humanity.
    Human skills are essential in the AI age.
    Emotional intelligence will become increasingly important.
    Public shaming in the workplace is counterproductive.
    AI can enhance efficiency but may reduce creativity.
    Creating a psychologically safe workplace is crucial.
    Conflict resolution requires understanding different communication styles.
    Leaders must adapt to the changing workplace dynamics.
    Gardening and meditation help ground individuals.
    AI's impact on spirituality and human connection is significant.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Human Skills in the AI Age
    06:03 Navigating AI's Impact on Creativity and Communication
    09:57 Spirituality and AI: A New Frontier
    16:28 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in a Digital World
    22:51 The Human Brain and AI Interaction
    24:24 Designing for AI: The New Rhetoric
    25:56 AI and Emotional Intelligence
    28:09 Conflict Resolution in Construction
    31:45 Generational Discrepancies in the Workplace
    36:17 Creating a Psychologically Safe Workplace
    40:29 The Future of AI in Leadership
    44:21 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership
    44:49 Future of Project Management Insights
    44:58 ending.mp4
    45:32 Unleash the Code Intro.wav




    lINKS AND STUFF



    Tom Esch

    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    46 m
  • AI Won’t Work If You Don’t Fix THIS First
    Jul 4 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Michael Schank, a digital transformation consultant and author, discusses the complexities of digital transformation, the importance of alignment within organizations, and the role of AI in enhancing processes. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of business processes through the Process Inventory Framework, which helps organizations identify inefficiencies and align their strategies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of cultural change in adopting new technologies and the future implications of AI in business.

    Takeaways

    Digital transformation failures often stem from lack of alignment.
    Understanding processes is crucial for successful transformation.
    Organizations must document existing processes to identify inefficiencies.
    AI should be embedded in business processes for maximum impact.
    Cultural change is essential for successful technology adoption.
    Transparency in strategy helps align teams towards common goals.
    The Process Inventory Framework aids in understanding organizational capabilities.
    Shadow systems can undermine official processes and need to be addressed.
    AI can revolutionize business operations if implemented correctly.
    Future success will depend on how organizations adapt to AI advancements.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Digital Transformation
    04:06 Understanding Transformation Failures
    06:56 The Importance of Alignment in Organizations
    09:35 Process Inventory Framework Explained
    12:25 Integrating AI with Process Frameworks
    15:13 Rethinking Established Processes
    17:31 Addressing Shadow Systems in Organizations
    20:22 Empowerment and Transparency in AI Strategies
    22:54 Measuring Project Success
    23:51 Navigating AI Strategy in a Rapidly Changing Landscape
    25:18 Understanding Digital Transformation Frameworks
    27:11 Evolving Perspectives on Business Capabilities
    28:18 Embedding AI into Organizational Processes
    29:40 Cultural Change and Technology Adoption
    31:03 Trusting AI: The Importance of Human Oversight
    31:49 AI Deployment Challenges in Large Organizations
    33:57 Comparing Transformation in Large vs. Small Organizations
    35:55 Legacy and Future of Digital Transformation
    36:47 The Future of AI: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility
    38:24 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership
    38:53 Future of Project Management Insights
    39:05 ending.mp4
    39:38 Unleash the Code Intro.wav

    LINKS AND STUFF

    Get the report here

    Michael Schank



    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    41 m
  • The Weekly Pulse - Meta Poaches OpenAI's Best
    Jul 2 2025

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    In this episode of the Weekly Pulse, we explore the latest developments in AI, focusing on the escalating talent war, ethical concerns in AI development, new standards for project management, Musk's controversial Grok 4 initiative, and the shift towards human-AI collaboration. They also discuss OpenAI's challenge to Microsoft Office and provide quick updates on other significant AI news.

    Takeaways

    • The AI landscape is rapidly evolving, making it crucial to stay informed.
    • The competition for AI talent is intensifying, with significant financial incentives.
    • Ethical considerations in AI development are being overshadowed by the race for talent.
    • New standards for AI in project management aim to address both opportunities and risks.
    • Musk's Grok 4 initiative raises concerns about the manipulation of truth in AI.
    • Human-AI collaboration is becoming a preferred model over full automation.
    • OpenAI's new collaborative software could disrupt traditional office tools.
    • The importance of governance and ethical frameworks in AI development cannot be overstated.
    • AI's impact on job roles is shifting towards valuing uniquely human skills.
    • The future of work will depend on how we choose to collaborate with AI.


    Chapters

    00:00 Navigating the AI Landscape
    02:49 The Talent War in AI
    05:50 Ethics and Safety in AI Development
    08:53 New Standards for AI in Project Management
    11:47 Musk's Grok 4 and the Redefinition of Truth
    16:41 Human-AI Collaboration: A New Paradigm
    19:44 OpenAI's Challenge to Microsoft Office
    23:44 Quick Updates and Insights from Project Flux

    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

    Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    30 m
  • Can AI Beat Human Estimators?
    Jun 27 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner speaks with Tolis Chatzisymeon about the intersection of AI and project management, particularly in estimating and engineering. They discuss the rapid evolution of AI, the importance of emotional intelligence in engineering roles, and the future of quantity surveying. Tolis shares insights from his journey in the industry, the challenges of integrating AI into estimating systems, and the significance of data quality. The conversation also touches on the role of BIM in modern engineering and the cultural influences that shape entrepreneurial success.

    Takeaways

    AI is rapidly evolving and will significantly impact project management.
    Emotional intelligence and leadership skills are becoming essential in engineering roles.
    The gap between estimating and planning needs to be bridged for better project outcomes.
    Modern estimating practices are evolving with technology and AI integration.
    Data quality is crucial for accurate AI predictions in estimating.
    AI can automate many aspects of estimating, improving efficiency.
    Understanding how AI makes recommendations is vital for quantity surveyors.
    BIM and AI together can enhance the accuracy of project estimations.
    Listening to early adopters is key for startups in the tech space.
    Cultural influences can shape entrepreneurial approaches and business strategies.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Future of AI in Business
    04:31 Passion for Engineering and Technology
    07:10 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Engineering
    09:44 The Birth of Nometech
    12:24 Modern Cost Estimating Practices
    15:09 Leveraging AI for Cost Estimation
    17:38 Challenges in Standardizing Estimation Data
    20:22 The Evolution of AI in Estimating
    22:49 Challenges in AI and Data Integration
    24:48 The Complexity of Cost Estimation
    27:52 Human Insight vs AI in Decision Making
    29:54 The Future of Quantity Surveying
    33:15 Advice for New Graduates in the Industry
    37:33 Lessons Learned from Entrepreneurship
    42:23 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership
    42:52 Future of Project Management Insights
    43:04 ending.mp4
    43:38 Unleash the Code Intro.wav

    LINK AND STUFF

    Tolis Chatzisymeon

    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    43 m
  • The Weekly Pulse - OpenAI's Strategic Pivot Away From Microsoft Reshapes Silicon Valley's Future
    Jun 25 2025

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    Summary

    This conversation explores the rapid evolution of AI and its profound impact on various sectors, particularly project delivery.

    It highlights the shifting dynamics between major players like OpenAI and Microsoft, groundbreaking innovations in AI applications, the widening digital divide in AI literacy, and the ethical implications of AI deployment.

    The discussion also delves into the challenges faced by Elon Musk's XAI and the ongoing battle for content rights in the AI landscape. Ultimately, it emphasises the need for organisations to adapt strategically to the changing AI landscape and the importance of transparency and ethical considerations in AI development.

    Takeaways

    • AI is fundamentally reshaping project delivery across sectors.
    • The partnership between OpenAI and Microsoft is evolving towards competition.
    • AI innovations like robotic concrete testing are setting new industry standards.
    • The digital divide in AI literacy poses risks for future workforce equity.
    • Elon Musk's XAI faces significant financial and ethical challenges.
    • Content rights issues are becoming critical in the AI landscape.
    • Organizations must prioritize AI literacy in recruitment and training.
    • Infrastructure planning is essential for large-scale AI projects.
    • Real-time data transparency is becoming a baseline expectation.
    • The future of AI will be shaped by ethical considerations and community impacts.




    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

    Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    35 m
  • Why Construction Sites Don’t Trust AI Yet
    Jun 20 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James and Yoshi engage with John Ryan from SymTerra to discuss the current state of construction technology. They explore the disconnect between technological advancements and on-site realities, emphasising the importance of accountability in tech solutions.

    John shares insights on the ethical dilemmas posed by AI in construction, the lag in safety regulations, and the need for better communication and collaboration within the industry. The conversation also touches on the future of robotics, the challenges of vendor lock-in, and the necessity for user-friendly tech solutions that empower site teams. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the potential for innovation in construction through a focus on practical applications and the importance of adapting to change.

    Takeaways

    • There's a massive disconnect between tech and on-site realities.
    • Accountability in construction tech is crucial for safety.
    • AI can help identify unique problems in construction projects.
    • Data silos hinder effective decision-making in construction.
    • Profit motives can lead to resistance against AI adoption.
    • Collaboration is essential for successful project delivery.
    • User-friendly tech solutions are needed for on-site workers.
    • The future of tier one construction companies is uncertain.
    • Empowering site teams can drive innovation in construction.
    • Interoperability among construction tools is vital for efficiency.


    Chapters

    00:00 Challenges in Construction Technology
    04:01 Accountability in Tech and Construction
    06:51 The Role of AI in Construction
    09:25 Data Management and Decision Making
    12:02 Profit Motives in Construction
    14:50 The Future of Robotics in Construction
    17:22 Specialization vs. Generalisation in Robotics
    20:19 Adoption of AI Tools in Construction
    23:44 Training for AI Adoption
    26:01 The Role of AI in Construction Management
    28:03 Tech Resistance in the Construction Industry
    29:55 Vendor Lock-In and Technology Choices
    35:18 Navigating the Landscape of Construction Tech
    40:42 The Challenge of Data Integrity in Construction
    43:21 The Future of Construction: Tier 1 vs Tier 2
    47:54 Empowering Site Teams for Innovation
    54:05 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership
    54:33 Future of Project Management Insights
    54:45 ending.mp4


    links and stuff

    John Ryan's Linked In

    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

    Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    58 m
  • The Weekly Pulse - Apple's Strategic AI Pause Amid Infrastructure Revolution
    Jun 18 2025

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    This conversation delves into the insights from the Project Flux newsletter, focusing on how AI is reshaping project delivery and innovation. Key themes include the evolution of OpenAI, Meta's strategic acquisition of Scale AI, Apple's cautious approach to AI, the UK's systematic AI strategy, and the importance of governance in AI development. The discussion emphasises the need for human values and judgment in navigating the complexities of AI integration into various sectors.

    Takeaways

    • AI is reshaping project delivery and innovation.
    • OpenAI's 03 Pro emphasizes collaboration over raw capability.
    • Persistent Contextual Intelligence can save time in complex projects.
    • Meta's acquisition of Scale AI highlights infrastructure control as a competitive advantage.
    • Apple's cautious approach reflects a focus on reliability over speed.
    • The UK's AI strategy prioritizes systematic infrastructure development.
    • Governance in AI is about enabling responsible tech development.
    • Human judgment and ethical oversight are becoming more critical.
    • AI's role is shifting from execution to design and alignment.
    • The future of project management will require adapting to self-improving systems.


    Chapters

    00:00 AI's Impact on Project Delivery
    07:29 Meta's Strategic AI Acquisition
    10:48 Apple's Cautious Approach to AI
    13:44 The UK's Systematic AI Strategy
    16:27 Governance and Practical Tools in AI



    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

    Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    23 m
  • Adam Boddison - Chief Executive of APM on the future of Project Management
    Jun 13 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner and Yoshi interview Adam Boddison from the Association of Project Management. They discuss the evolving landscape of project management, the impact of AI, and the importance of human skills in the profession. Adam shares insights from his diverse career, emphasizing the need for collaboration and ethical decision-making in project delivery. The conversation also touches on the challenges of adapting to rapid technological changes and the future of project management.

    Takeaways

    • AI will play a significant role in project management.
    • The intersection of education and project management is crucial.
    • Success in projects is not just about meeting specifications.
    • Human intuition and soft skills are irreplaceable in project management.
    • The project management profession must adapt to technological advancements.
    • Collaboration among different organizations can enhance project outcomes.
    • Ethical decision-making is vital in project management.
    • The future of work will require new skills and competencies.
    • AI should be seen as a tool to augment human capabilities.
    • Long-term thinking is essential for evaluating project success.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Project Management and AI
    04:40 The Intersection of Education and Project Management
    07:12 The Future of AI in Project Management
    09:48 Understanding Project Success and Failure
    12:35 Navigating Change in Project Delivery
    15:21 AI as a Strategic Tool in Project Management
    17:57 Cultural Attitudes Towards AI in the Workplace
    21:00 The Role of APM in AI Adoption
    23:38 Environmental Considerations in AI Usage
    24:06 The Urgency of AI Regulation
    26:38 AI's Role in Project Management
    29:45 The Human Element in Project Management
    32:57 APM's Initiatives in AI and Data
    38:04 Lessons from Failure and Ethical Decision Making
    40:47 Legacy and the Future of Project Management



    Links and stuff

    Adam Boddison

    Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
    Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

    Support the show

    Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter!

    All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter!

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    Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

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    45 m